Tag: Empowerment

🌿 Breaking the Mold in Faith, Leadership, and Voice

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

A Conversation with Sarah J.R. Smith

What if your voice was never meant to fit the mold?

In this powerful episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we sit down with Sarah J.R. Smith—author, pastor, mother, and model-breaker (also known as Precarious Yates)—to unpack what it really means to walk boldly in your calling, even when it challenges tradition.

🔥 Why You Need to Listen

For many women in faith spaces, the message has been clear: stay quiet, stay small, stay within the lines.

But what happens when God calls you outside of that?

Sarah shares her journey of stepping into leadership despite resistance, unlearning limiting beliefs, and embracing a faith rooted in truth—not fear. From her global missionary experiences to her work addressing real-world issues like human trafficking and spiritual warfare, her story is both raw and empowering.

✨ What We Cover

  • Finding your voice in spaces that expect silence
  • Breaking barriers as a woman in ministry
  • Unlearning harmful traditions and rebuilding faith
  • Navigating leadership, family, and the mental load
  • Standing firm in your calling—even when it’s uncomfortable

Sara JR Smith—also known by her pen name, Precarious Yates. She’s an author, a pastor, a wife, a mom—and honestly, a model-breaker in every sense of the word.
From missionary work across Ireland, India, and the Philippines… to writing bold, unfiltered stories that dive into real-world darkness and spiritual warfare. You can hear more from her on  Facebook, X (Former Twitter), and Instagram

Author of the Revelation Special Ops series

Author of The Heart of the Caveat Whale trilogy

Book 1 of Revelation Special Ops
How far will teen spy Hadassah Michelman go to
free kids from modern slavery? Will she stake out all
night in a West African Jungle?
Swim through a polluted river in the Philippines?
Climb through abandoned sewers in Rome?
At least the organization she wants to work for,
RSO supplies handy espionage gadgets. She hopes
they’re enough to get her out of a thousand
impossible situations.
She never imagined anyone from her team would
encounter dinosaurs. Terrorists with biochemical
weapons. Earthquakes in every corner of the globe.
Will she still rescue kids from traffickers when
disasters surround?
Will she have the strength to be the elite of the weak?
And if not, where will she find it?
https://a.co/d/aFhEuuH

🌱 The Takeaway

You don’t need permission to be who God called you to be. Your voice matters.
Your calling is valid. And you were never meant to shrink to belong.

Ready to be challenged, encouraged, and inspired?

👉 Tune in to this episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse and step boldly into your calling.

📌 Follow us on social media @therisingmuse for more conversations that uplift and empower.

✨ Are you ready to break the mold?

Lindsay McCutcheon: A Journey from Addiction to Resilience

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

In a world where challenges often seem insurmountable, stories of recovery and resilience shine as beacons of hope. Lindsay McCutcheon’s journey is one such story—a testament to the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity and emerge stronger than ever.

Lindsay’s battle with addiction began at a young age, spiraling into a life dominated by substances. “I crossed that invisible line of addiction at 23,” she recalls, marking the beginning of a tumultuous journey. Despite the chaos, Lindsay’s story is not one of defeat but of relentless determination to reclaim her life.

In 2018, Lindsay reached a pivotal moment. “I hit my knees in my bedroom one Sunday and cried out to God,” she shares. This moment of surrender marked the start of her recovery, fueled by a newfound strength and the support of a community that believed in her potential.

Lindsay’s recovery was not just about abstaining from substances; it was about transforming her life. Through the fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous and the unwavering support of her family, she learned to navigate the complexities of sobriety. “I learned that you can have fun in recovery,” she emphasizes, highlighting the importance of finding joy in the journey.

Today, Lindsay stands as a certified peer specialist, helping others navigate their own paths to recovery. Her story is a powerful reminder that resilience is not the absence of struggle but the ability to rise above it. “If you stay sober, the sky’s the limit,” she affirms, inspiring others to believe in their own potential.

Lindsay McCutchey’s journey is a testament to the unyielding spirit of recovery and resilience. Her story reminds us that no matter how deep the darkness, there is always a path to the light. For those struggling, Lindsay’s message is clear: “Anything is possible. Don’t sell yourself short.”

Subscribe Now: Join us in celebrating stories of strength and transformation. Subscribe to our blog for more inspiring journeys and insights into the power of recovery and resilience. To watch the full episode, click on the picture below.

How I Transformed My Pain Into Power- Tanisha’s Story

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

In our latest episode of “Thrive by The Rising Muse,” we are honored to have Tanisha Bankston, the remarkable author and founder of the ministry “My Pain is My Power,” share her deeply personal and transformative journey. This episode delves into the profound impact of childhood trauma and the incredible power of faith and resilience in overcoming life’s most challenging moments.

A Glimpse into Tanisha’s Journey

From an early age, Tanisha faced unimaginable pain and adversity. Her story begins at just five years old when she endured abuse and was subsequently disbelieved by those she trusted. This traumatic experience silenced her inner voice and set her on a path of fear, shame, and self-doubt that spanned nearly three decades.

In “My Pain is My Power,” Tanisha courageously recounts her journey of finding her voice again and reclaiming her life through faith. She speaks candidly about the struggles she faced, the healing power of prayer, and how she transformed her pain into a source of strength to empower others.

Tanisha also shares valuable information about her ministry, “My Pain is My Power,” and its mission to support women and children who have experienced similar traumas. She discusses the various initiatives and programs her ministry offers and how the community can better support individuals on their healing journeys.

Why You Should Listen

This episode is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of faith. Tanisha’s story is not just one of survival but of thriving against all odds. Her journey from pain to power is an inspiration to anyone who has faced adversity and seeks hope and healing.

Tune In and Be Inspired

Don’t miss this compelling episode of “Thrive by The Rising Muse.” Tanisha’s story will leave you inspired, uplifted, and ready to embrace the power within yourself to overcome any obstacle.

Tanisha Bankston is a mother of 3 children from Grenada, Mississippi. She is a survivor of childhood abuse and domestic violence, and now an author and speaker. Tanisha was abused at the age of 5, leading her to lose her inner voice and withdraw into a shell for 27 years. She was taken from her mother, separated from her siblings, and adopted by her aunt. Despite feeling protected, she faced further challenges within the broken judicial system. Tanisha became a teen mom at 14 and again at 17. She rediscovered her inner voice on July 3, 2020, and found healing and deliverance from her pain and past on September 4, 2020. Tanisha wrote and self-published her book “My Pain is My Power” on May 21, 2021. She created a private support group for survivors called “I Believe You” on Facebook and founded the nonprofit organization I Believe You Inc. Tanisha launched her podcast, “My Pain is My Power Podcast,” on April 1, 2022, aiming to inspire others that they can overcome their challenges with hope.

To connect with Tanisha:

Listen to the full episode on here and join us in supporting Tanisha’s mission to empower others through her ministry.

Be sure to subscribe to “Thrive by The Rising Muse” for more inspiring stories and insightful discussions on faith, family, and mental health. Follow us on [social media links] and stay connected for updates on future episodes and special guests.

Together, let’s turn pain into power and support one another on our journeys of healing and growth.

Faith, Justice and Mental Health

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment


In this week’s episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we delve into the intricate web of the justice system, shedding light on its nuances, challenges, and the inspiring journey of one individual dedicated to reforming it. Join us as we sit down with Ramona Toole, a beacon of resilience, service, and hope, whose personal story fuels her unwavering commitment to creating a safer and more equitable community for all

Ramona’s upbringing was marked by adversity, with a tumultuous household overshadowed by her father’s abuse and addiction. Yet, amidst the chaos, a pivotal moment ignited her path towards justice. A chance encounter with a black female judge sparked a flame within her, propelling her towards a career in law, driven by the desire to be a voice for the voiceless and a source of inspiration for the marginalized.

For Ramona, faith has been a guiding force, shaping her perspective on justice and compassion. While the legal system may be bound by the separation of church and state, Ramona emphasizes the crucial role of faith in addressing mental health within the justice system. She advocates for holistic approaches, integrating mental health support and rehabilitation services to break the cycle of crime and stigma

Central to Ramona’s mission is bridging the gap between law enforcement and marginalized communities. Through community service projects and mentorship programs, she aims to foster trust, understanding, and mutual respect between officers and civilians. By humanizing the badge and fostering genuine connections, Ramona believes we can cultivate safer, more inclusive communities.

Ramona underscores the importance of equitable access to justice, regardless of background or circumstance. Treating individuals with dignity, providing platforms for dialogue, and amplifying marginalized voices are essential steps towards building a more just society. Additionally, she advocates for comprehensive mental health support, urging policymakers to prioritize funding and accessibility for all.

As Ramona embarks on her journey to become a Gwinnett County State Court judge, her platform extends beyond the courtroom. With a focus on accident cases, civil disputes, DUI offenses, and traffic violations, she seeks to uphold fairness, integrity, and accountability in every case. Her nonpartisan approach underscores her commitment to serving the community above all else.

As we conclude our conversation with Ramona Toole, we are reminded of the power of resilience, compassion, and advocacy in reshaping our justice system. Through her tireless efforts, Ramona exemplifies the transformative potential within each of us to effect meaningful change. Check out our latest episode for more!

Until next time, be blessed.

Breaking the Silence: A Journey into Faith and Mental Health

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

As we continue on this journey together, we just wanted to remind you that our premiere episode of Thrive, will be dedicated to exploring the delicate intersection of faith and mental health. In this inaugural episode, we have a very special interview lined up that promises to challenge perceptions, ignite conversations, and offer hope to those navigating the complexities of faith and mental wellness.

Our guest for this episode brings a wealth of insight and experience to the table, offering a unique perspective on the struggles and triumphs encountered within the faith community. We delve into topics that have long been shrouded in silence and stigma, shedding light on the importance of open dialogue, understanding, and support.

Stay tuned as we prepare to lift the veil on this thought-provoking conversation. Join us as we break the silence, confront misconceptions, and pave the way for healing and acceptance. Together, let’s embark on a journey of growth, empowerment, and resilience.

Keep an eye out for the release of our premiere episode of Thrive, where faith meets mental health in a powerful and transformative dialogue. We can’t wait to share this journey with you. April 7th our first episode will be available on YouTube and Spotify. By the end of the week it will be available everywhere you usually access your favorite podcasts.

Until then, remember: we are here to thrive.

Warm regards,
Naty
Host, Thrive Podcast